Massachusetts HHS Secretary Walsh Steps Down, Mahaniah Named Successor Amid Funding Cuts

Massachusetts Health and Human Services Secretary Kate Walsh is stepping down after more than two years in the role and over four decades in health care leadership. Governor Maura Healey has appointed Dr. Kiame Mahaniah, who has served as undersecretary of health since April 2023, as the new Secretary of Health and Human Services, starting Monday. Mahaniah brings extensive clinical and leadership experience, including his work as CEO of Lynn Community Health Center and his focus on addiction, primary care, and value-based care. The transition comes at a critical time as Massachusetts faces significant funding cuts and enrollment changes at MassHealth due to a new federal law. Governor Healey emphasized Mahaniah’s commitment to making health care more affordable and accessible, particularly in primary care and behavioral health, amid challenges posed by the Trump Administration’s policies. Walsh will remain involved as an advisor to the Healey administration to ensure continuity.